If you have a student who will be in college in the fall of 2014, now is the time to get started on the FAFSA, available online at https://fafsa.ed.gov/ . If you’re new to the FAFSA, here are some things to know:

–          You can file any time up until your state’s or school’s deadline. Click here to find your state’s deadline: https://fafsa.ed.gov/deadlines.htm

–          Although the FAFSA asks for 2013 tax data, most people are better off estimating and completing the FAFSA sooner, rather than waiting until their taxes are done.

–          Many states award financial aid “until funds are depleted.” If you live in one of those states (check https://fafsa.ed.gov/fotw1415/pdf/Deadlines.pdf for a complete list of deadlines), apply now!

The FAFSA is long, but it’s fairly straightforward. Please use the Comments section to ask any questions you have about it.